Pupils invited to take part in bird survey

Youngsters are being encouraged to take part in the world’s biggest school wildlife survey.

Schoolchildren across North Tyneside are being asked to be part of the RSPB’s Big Schools’ Birdwatch, which runs until February 13.

The survey encourages schoolchildren of all ages, and their teachers, to count the birds in their school grounds for one hour of one day.

Each school’s findings will help the RSPB to build a picture of bird populations and monitor any changes.

Siobhan McGuigan, RSPB regional youth development officer in northern England, said: “Taking part in the RSPB’s Big Schools’ Birdwatch is a fantastic excuse to look out of the classroom window and discover much more about the wildlife which visits your playground.

“By keeping a look out and making a note of the different kinds of birds, children will not only improve their observation skills and enjoy a great learning experience, but they will also be encouraged to want to help to give nature a home, which is fantastic.

“There’s plenty of flexibility for schools to run the survey as simply as they would like.”